The Mixed Crips chat with Nicole, Barry, Brian and Shaylee about life in and out of facilities/care homes while in a long term relationship. There are stories here that may surprise you.
*We had some technical difficulties with Tashs audio in this episode*
TALK TO ME It is hard to miss Barry with his big beard and even bigger personality! Barry has arrived as his “good vibes only” motto and attitude are quick to spread. Now at 56, a resident of Wascana Rehabilitation Centre, Barry’s room is a collection of his creative endeavours – artwork made at Camp, a keyboard to play music, and all the technology tools he needs for writing books, poetry, and performances. Although Barry is experiencing life in a wheelchair, he enjoys challenging himself and people’s perceptions of what individuals experiencing disability can achieve in their lives. Humble as he is, Barry is a published author, local performer in the Listen To Dis’ Voice ensemble, musician, and board member of the first and only disability arts organization that is led by people experiencing disability. I’m a social person. I like having deep conversations; when I speak, I speak from my heart,” He’s not just the comic relief or someone to wax philosophical with; he’s a teacher and a friend to many.“Barry makes everyone feel welcome in his presence, and everyone loves to be around him”
Shaylee is BACK is an LTD’ Artist and Administrative Associate and Arts Programmer with Listen to Dis’ Community Arts Organization. She graduated from the University of Regina with a Bachelor of Social Work in 2022 and hopes to use that training in future theatre projects.
Shaylee is an actor in both The Dripping Honeys [LTD’ music ensemble] and The Other Ordinary [LTD’s theatre company]. Most recently, she has appeared in the Dripping Honey’s productions Bits & Pieces of Dis’ & Dat which toured across the province in 2023 and 2024. She is also the monologist in the annual “Not Just Christmas” concert which is performed at care and seniors’ homes in Regina and surrounding areas, in addition to the annual public concert at Darke Hall. And finally, she was cast in a staged read of award-winning playwright Kelley Jo Burke’s new work “Rigby” last year.
For fun, Shaylee enjoys soft fluffy animals, music, and time spent with loved ones.
Bryan has served as the community engagement specialist for Chip and Dale Homes for the past 5 years.
Prior to that, Bryan studied history at the University of Regina with expertise in First Nations. Bryan has spent time advocating for persons with disabilities all around Saskatchewan. With time spent at the university of Regina Helping build modern bathrooms and elevators, while working at such influential organizations like Chip and Dale Homes, Special Olympics Saskatchewan, and Cerebral Palsy Saskatchewan.
In his spare time, Bryan enjoys spending time with family and loved ones and playing video games.
Born and raised in Regina Saskatchewan, Nicole (friends call her Nic), is an actor with an obsession for musicals! Having studied at the University of Regina for journalism and theatre acting, her main credits come from working with theatre companies, such as Listen to Dis Community Arts, Organization, and Sterling Productions. This crazy cat lady will always keep you guessing!
